Here is why some struggle with remote work

Peter du ToitI'm the founder of FutureWork IQ where I spend my time assisting businesses to design digital workplaces or “offices in the cloud.” These environments enable companies to allow flexible and remote working for their teams. I also teach the digital literacy, fluency, communication and collaboration skills needed to work in these modern technology-rich workplaces.

Knowledge workers in China have undergone a major “remote work stress test” as the government enforces social distancing to stem the spread of Covid-19.

This piece entitled Will remote work be a long-term habit after the coronavirus? makes the observation:

“Many Chinese workers who never had remote work experience have struggled with the transition.”

I would argue that one of the main reasons anyone will struggle with remote work is as a result of having a low digital literacy and fluency score.

Digital Literacy can be defined as “the interest, attitude and ability of individuals to use digital technology and communication tools appropriately to access, manage, integrate, analyze and evaluate information, construct new knowledge, and create and communicate with others.” — in other words having the skill to be just as effective in-person as virtually.

How will your team fare if put into a forced remote work situation?